VERSACE SPRING 2016

VERSACE SPRING 2016

Donatella Versace's uplifting Spring 2016 collection was steeped in combat undertones. Crisp, defined silhouettes brimming of urban jungle warrior radiated on the runway, models ready for battle.

Brazilian catwalk veteran Raquel Zimmermann opened the collection in a khaki, elongated blazer in distinguished lines. The sensual, sophisticated number starred in micro proportions. Oversized pockets featured contrasting olive racing stripes. A three tone onyx, butterscotch and green webbing belt complete with silver Versace centrepiece accentuated the waist. Platform, peep toe, booties were finalised with suede criss-cross detail and gold insignia.

Natasha Poly modelled an admirably wearable, rich camel, military inspired overcoat. Four large pockets punctuated the drawstring coat which grazed the upper thigh. A simplistic shift dress in the shade of seaweed was teamed underneath.

A bold, emerald, camo print highlighted a deep v-neck mini dress, modelled by Victoria's Secret fave, Behati Prinsloo. The form fitting, body con, number featured streamlined darting and flap pockets.Black scalloped pocket lining peeked cheekily below the dress hemline. Anna Ewers modelled an eighties inspired ensemble comprising of a relaxed panelled sweater in shades of sugilite, electric jade and slate. Patterns included zebra, leopard, and solid black. Tailored, camouflage print shorts concluded the punchy number. Ribbed, spinach hued, socks were twinned to strappy, grass green, platforms.

An undulating, Pucci-esque, amethyst, pine and emerald green sleek longline tuxedo jacket was paired to highwaisted, precision cut, micro shorts. A narrow grape bandeau was layered to the jacket. A luxurious camo scarf with gold insignia hardware added finesse to the seventies derived garb.

A textural, round neck, asymmetrical drop waist mini dress starred in lavender suede, turquoise green leather and waxy black exotic leather inserts. Platform leather workman's boots toughened the feminine, flirty arabesque.

A succession of blouson sleeve mini dresses punctuated the runway in a series of different fabrics and finishes; from the casual mans style sky blue pinstripe to the amplified organza ebony or the graphic tangerine, tan, ribena, raven silk satin version all contained the hallmark feature webbing belt. The nipped in waist was very much in attendance.

A languid pantsuit shone in the shade of pecan. The relaxed trousers were generously cut and sat low on the hip. A rigorously cut blazer came complete with fringed trimmings. A tangerine, bandeau crop was body baring. An Italian scarf print graced a silk neck tie.

Amplified Versace buzz dominated on a suggestive, plunging, maxi dress, ideal for a sexy siren. Details included gossamer zebra lace slip layered to an asymmetrical camo print which swathed the torso and cascaded effortlessly to the ground. A provocative leg split concluded the sizzling number. A string of lavish, enlivened cocktail mini dresses closed the collection and beckoned to be worn by the empowered Versace woman. Variants included a mauve, rouleau mesh embellished style and a kale hued barely there, transparent slip dress starring scintillating sequins in surging patterns.

By Courtney Jones.